The possibility of being drowned rats did not deter more than 200 brave partygoers who headed to Armand Bayou Nature Center Saturday night in the middle of the torrential rains and thunderous lightning. In fact, when the party tent began to flood, these dedicated troopers simply shed their shoes, rolled up their pants legs and continued on.

The only thing not dampened at this fundraiser, according to one guest, was the spirits of those in the soggy scene. Benefit chairs Chris LaChance and John Wilson presided over the "Back to the Bayou" evening. They and honorary chair Dick Gregg Jr. roundly applauded the efforts of Jim Benton Catering, Capital Beverage and Bright Star Productions, each of which beautifully improvised amid the vast wetness.

Even the band, Johnny and the Spinsations, persevered as did String Theory, which provided a bit of bluegrass while the heavens let loose. Fearless former TV hurricane ace Wayne Dolcefino arrived in time, though drenched, to fulfill his duties as emcee.